What to see and do at The Painted Church, Kona, Big Island, Hawaii

The Painted Church is located in Kona, Big Island, Hawaii

St. Benedict’s Painted Church is located in place called Honaunau on the Big Island of Hawaii. It is located in the famous Kona coffee growing region overlooking the beautiful and historic Kealakekua Bay. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is open to the public for viewing seven days a week.

We visited the St. Benedict’s Painted Church on 12/20/2023 and toured the church and its surrounding gardens.

The church was erected in 1899 by Father John Velghe who was a Belgian Catholic missionary.  In those days, few Hawaiians could read and so he taught with pictures. Without any professional training and using house paint on ordinary wood he beautified the church with his paintings.  Other priests learned from Father Velghe and went on to establish other painted churches.

Gothic vaults painted above the altar, creating the illusion of a European Gothic cathedral. Father Velghe depicted various biblical scenes, such as Cain's murder of Abel, Jesus refusing the Devil, and a vivid illustration of sinners in Hell.

Viator offers numerous tours in the Kona region.  Click here for details.

View of the St. Benedict’s Painted Church from the parking lot

View of the left wall of the  St. Benedict’s Painted Church 

View of the ceiling of the  St. Benedict’s Painted Church 

View of the right wall of the St. Benedict’s Painted Church 

View out the front door of the St. Benedict’s Painted Church 

View of the gardens of the  St. Benedict’s Painted Church 

View of the entrance sign for the St. Benedict’s Painted Church